The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Victorian councils to build the infrastructure they need for communities in the state's fastest growing suburbs.
Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane today announced applications are now open for the Growing Suburbs Fund, with $50 million available as announced in the Victorian Budget 2022/23.
The funds will support councils develop projects such as community centres, sporting facilities, playgrounds and open spaces.
Previous investments from the Fund include the newly opened Golden Plains Youth Hub in Bannockburn. Backed by $270,000, the Golden Plains Shire Council has transformed the site into a purpose-built and welcoming space for young people from across the shire to gather and create new social connections.
The Fund also provided Casey City Council with $3.3 million in funding for the Cranbourne North Active Open Space Reserve which features three football pitches, a cricket oval, flood lights, a playground, cricket nets and public art.
With unisex and fully accessible change rooms, a community room and kitchen, the facility will be inclusive for women and people of all abilities when it's completed this month.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council will soon open the Somerville Active Recreation Hub, after receiving $742,500 from the Fund, with the free community space featuring a new skate-park and parkour equipment.
This year's Budget continues to strengthen communities by investing in projects tailored to local areas, while also providing an economic boost across the state as Victoria responds to the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.
The Growing Suburbs Fund is available to Melbourne's 10 interface and six peri-urban councils, and aims to deliver more playgrounds, parks and community centres to help transform communities.
Since being established in 2015, the Fund has now invested a total of $425 million to support more than 300 projects and helped create more than 10,000 jobs.
Applications are now open and for more information, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants/growing-suburbs-fundExternal Link.
To find out more about the projects helping communities and businesses thrive in your local area, visit delivering.vic.gov.auExternal Link.
As stated by Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane
"We are creating the vital facilities and infrastructure that communities in our fastest growing areas need."
"Victorians in our fastest growing suburbs deserve to have spaces and facilities to help them develop new connections, that will support wellbeing and help strengthen communities as they continue to grow."
